A Fever for Drive-In Theaters

After we posted our photos of Stardust 17 Drive-In in Grafton, it became pretty clear that you were bitten by the Drive-In bug, because we got lots of comments, questions, and emails about Drive-In Theaters.

As we mentioned in that post, there are no remaining operating drive-in theaters in the state of North Dakota — the last was Lake Park Drive-In in Williston, which closed in 2012.

Here is a larger list which includes open drive-in theaters within reasonable driving distance of North Dakota. I’ve included official websites where possible. Many of these facilities have seldom updated websites, so please call or email ahead before you drive too far. If you have updated information to add to this page, please post a comment.

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For several years my gang never missed a movie and sometimes saw the same one several times. (Note: Many films were actually never viewed–ahem!) Usually only a driver was in the car, but as many as possible were packed in the trunk to avoid paying for the tickets. Then park off in a corner – everyone out and find a speaker post to spread your blankets! Many memories!

I am sorry to report that the Lake Park Drive-Inn was not open this summer even though the drive-in destinations site listed it as open. It is for sale but with the price of real estate in the Williston area I doubt it will have a future as a drive-in theatre. I was working in the Williston area all summmer and fall and it was clearly deserted.

Raleigh ND had a drive-in for one year in 1950. The speakers were set on ladders at each side and in front of the screen. The screen could be raised and lowered and became the back-drop for an orchestra that played at the Raleigh Bowery dance. The projection booth was also the concession shack. I have not been able to locate a photo of either the drive-in or the Bowery and would appreciate if someone could provide at email Leo.ternes@icloud.com

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